Our Story

The Meaning of Michels

Michels is a proud, family owned and operated company, both factually and philosophically. We are guided by core values and committed to principles developed by the Michels family since 1959. We believe in providing solutions and continuously improving the quality and scope of our work. We care about our people, customers, and communities where we live and work.

We move ahead with passion and drive to separate ourselves from our competitors. With each passing year, we pursue new and more ways to build and maintain the world’s infrastructure. We tackle the largest projects and have the experience, structure, stability, and grit to deliver safe, reliable results. Building the way to a better future? We Do That … & More.

Vision

To exceed our customers’ expectations by continually setting the global standard for quality, safety, and environmental stewardship in utility and infrastructure construction.

Mission

To be the foremost provider of innovative construction solutions and value for our clients in their mission to serve the growing utility and infrastructure requirements of their customers around the world.

Core Values

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Safety

Safety is the cornerstone of our culture.

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Environment

We are committed to preserving and improving the environments where we live and work.

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Integrity

Our actions are characterized by integrity, trust and respect.

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Dedication & Teamwork

Our people are dedicated and share a passion for quality and innovation.

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Social Responsibility

We are committed to being a responsible community partner and value the diversity of individuals and their contributions.

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Sustainable Operations

We have sustainable operations driven by our ability to execute swift, strategic decisions.

History

Black and white headshot of Dale Michels holding a communication device

And so it began …

In the late 1950s, pipeline welder Dale Michels had the vision to start his own business. He reached out to his brother-in-law, Ted Koenigs, and Ted’s business partner, Jim Michel. Michels Pipeline Construction Inc. was established in 1959.

Guided by Dale’s entrepreneurial spirit, Michels overcame considerable obstacles in its infancy by focusing on future opportunities. Inspired by founders Dale and Ruth, their sons lead a company where innovation is an expectation, not an exception.

Metal Wisconsin state outline with established 1959 written in the middle.
Dale Michels stands outside in the Brownsville Yard on a cold winter day.

A story of dedication

Soon after Michels was established, a sideboom fell onto Dale Michels, crushing his hip. With Dale in the hospital and the company’s future in peril, most crew members planned to leave. But Jerry (known as “Employee Number 1”), stepped up, convinced them to stay, and ran day-to-day operations in the field. By night, Jerry visited Dale in the hospital, discussing strategy for the next day. The pattern continued for a year as Dale recovered.

Dedication

Our History

For over 25 years, Michels Canada has built a reputation for creating safe, specialized energy and infrastructure construction solutions focused on Canada’s future.

1997

Michels Directional Crossings Co. (later to be known as Michels Canada) is founded in Airdrie, AB.

2004

Michels Canada establishes its new headquarters in Nisku, AB.

2008

Michels Canada adds Cured-in-Place (CIPP) pipe as a service.

2013

Canada's first project using Direct Pipe installation is used for Beaver River Crossing.

2015

A record diameter (42-inch) pipeline project is performed in 2,195-metre crossing under the Athabasca River in Alberta.

2016

The Michels Canada Headquarters in Nisku is expanded. Geopolymer Rehabilitation is added as a service solution for large diameter tunnels and culverts.

2021

Michels Canada expands services to include Power Construction Services. A new office location is opened in Vancouver, BC. Awarded Best Health & Safety Culture Award from WSIB.

2022

Michels Canada celebrates 25th Anniversary. Toronto, ON office is expanded.